Blizzard Strikes Southwestern Ontario, Forcing Multiple Road Closures
Southwestern Ontario is currently facing severe winter weather, including a blizzard and extreme cold, according to Environment Canada. An orange blizzard warning has been issued for London, Huron and Middlesex Counties, as well as eastern Lambton County. A yellow warning for extreme cold is in effect throughout the entire southwestern Ontario region.
Blizzard Conditions in Southwestern Ontario
The blizzard conditions commenced on Friday afternoon, bringing significant snowfall to the area. Accumulations are projected to reach between 15 and 20 centimeters by Saturday morning. Accompanying these snowfalls are strong winds gusting up to 80 kilometers per hour, which may create near-zero visibility conditions.
Trudy Kidd, a meteorologist from Environment Canada, expressed concerns over visibility, particularly along the Lake Huron shore. “Visibility is going to be atrocious in exposed areas,” she noted. “Travel will be very dangerous, and it’s best to avoid it if possible.”
Weather Forecast and Warnings
Cold Arctic air moving into the region has exacerbated the weather crisis. Temperatures are expected to plummet overnight, with wind chill values dropping to a frigid -30°C to -35°C. The daytime temperatures on Saturday are expected to hover around -13°C, while overnight lows may reach -18°C.
Road Closures and Travel Advisories
Due to the severe weather and deteriorating road conditions, several roads have been closed as of 7:30 p.m. on Friday. The following closures are currently in effect:
- Highway 23: from Mitchell to Palmerston
- Highway 21: from Amberley to Port Elgin
- Bruce Road 3: from Paisley to Port Elgin
- Highway 9: from Kincardine to Bruce Road 1
- Ilderton Road: from Denfield Road to Hyde Park Road
Further disruptions are reported on Highway 402 due to multiple collisions. The westbound lanes are closed between Centre Road in Strathroy and Kerwood Road. Additionally, all lanes are shut in both directions between Mandaumin Road in Sarnia and Oil Heritage Road in Wyoming. Injuries from these incidents are currently being assessed.
Safety Recommendations for Drivers
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have issued strong advisories for drivers. “The roadways are snow-covered, slick, slippery, and in some cases, ice-covered,” warned OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk. He urged motorists to reduce their speed and exercise caution while driving. Kidd emphasized the importance of preparedness for anyone who must travel. Key recommendations include:
- Carry jumper cables in your vehicle.
- Keep warm winter clothing on hand in case of emergencies.
For those planning to be outdoors, it is essential to bundle up. Frostbite can occur in mere minutes on exposed skin, especially with the current wind conditions. The weather is expected to improve by the end of the weekend, with only a chance of flurries on Sunday night.
